[Date Prev][Date Next][Thread Prev][Thread Next][Date Index][Thread Index]

Re: Photo storage



Title: RE: Photo storage

Daniel,

I'm happy to reply, especially in view of the your help with my InMagic questions.  I also thought that the list would be interested.

> 1) Is there a recommended way to store photos?  Upright?  Flat?

Standard photo sizes are best stored on their long edges provided that they have been housed in appropriate folders and/or sleeves, and that they are supported and do not slump in the boxes.  Anything over 8"x10" should be stored flat, in very small stacks so that they are not over-weighed.  Some prints mounted on brittle or curling card stock cannot tolerate any staking, as the mount will break.  Cased images, such as daguerreotypes and ambrotypes, should be stored flat so that the hinges are not stressed and because sometimes there is movement within the various layers that comprise the case.

 
>
> 2) Should all photos be placed in Mylar/Polyethylene sleeves? Is there a preferred product between those two options?

While many images benefit from a clear primary enclosure, this is an extremely expensive and labor-intensive solution for a large collection.

I think that this is where you really need to evaluate the fragility and age of collections, the rate of handling and use, etc. to determine where and what type of primary enclosures are appropriate.  Mylar is a brand-name for polyester film of varying thickness that has the great advantage of being transparent, thus eliminating removal of the image for viewing, and of providing support to thin, unmounted prints.  However, it does attract dust through static electricity.  Also, you need to keep in mind that excess moisture can easily become trapped underneath a plastic enclosure and will not be desorbed (like a paper enclosure).

>
> 3) Is there a limit to how many prints should go into a
> particular folder
> (other than "don't overstuff")

I've never read and hard-and-fast rule, though if each item is in a primary enclosure, the thickness will of course increase and allow fewer items per folder.  I usually allow 5-10 unmounted prints per folder, and only one card photograph per folder.  It's important to never folder card photographs and thinner prints together, as the difference in thickness and weight will result in damage to the print.

>
> 4) What can be done to minimize curling?

Stable humidity levels will help to prevent more curling, but it is extremely difficult to "correct" curled prints.  Many archivists make humidification chambers and then flatten prints with varying degrees of success, though in my experience it often does not work.  Some curled panorama photos simply have to be stored rolled.  If you search the list archives I think you'll find a good deal of anecdotal information on this.

I hope these ideas are helpful to you,

Peter


Peter F. Schmid, CA
Visual Resources Archivist
Sisters of Providence Archives
Mother Joseph Province
4800 37th Avenue SW
Seattle, WA 98126-2793
Tel:  206-937-4600 ext. 1225
Fax:  206-923-4001
pschmid@providence.org
 ****************************************************************************This message is intended for the sole use of the individual and entity to whom it is addressed, and may contain information that is privileged, confidential and exempt from disclosure under applicable law.  If you are not the intended addressee, nor authorized to receive for the intended addressee, you are hereby notified that you may not use, copy, disclose or distribute to anyone the message or any information contained in the message.  If you have received this message in error, please immediately advise the sender by reply email and delete the message.  Thank you very much.                                                                       ****************************************************************************